Airlines

Boeing asks FAA for MAX 7 certification exemption over Anti-ice issue

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According to the US Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing is seeking an exemption from certain certification standards for its 737 MAX 7 aircraft due to an issue with the engine anti-icing system.

According to an FAA notification sent on December 4, the company, which has intended to begin Max 7 deliveries next year, requested interim exemptions in November as part of its campaign to gain the type’s certification.

Boeing is working on a permanent repair. It is unknown how the issue would influence the Max 7’s certification process, but the exemption request makes it obvious that the company requires further FAA approvals.

As it worked to design adjustments to prevent overheating, the US corporation sought an exemption from certification regulations relating to “the engine nacelle inlet structure and engine anti-ice system on the Model 737-7 airplane” through May 31, 2026.

The FAA has recently authorized the MAX 10 model for flight testing with the granting of a type inspection authorization, despite the problems with the 737-7’s certification.

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Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.